Ukraine Commandos Tried to Liberate Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant 3 Times, Budanov Says

In a recent interview with NV, Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) revealed that Ukrainian forces made three attempts to liberate the strategically significant areas of Energodar and the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

The first of these attempts occurred in August 2022, with the primary objective being the establishment of a bridgehead on the left bank of the region. Several dozen commandos undertook this mission, crossing the Kakhovka reservoir aboard high-speed boats.

The operation, however, did not yield the desired results, leading to a forced withdrawal.

Following this initial setback, Ukrainian Intelligence units undertook two more landing operations on the left bank of the Dnipro River [which is still under the control of the Russian forces]. Still, these attempts faced similar outcomes.

Soldiers from the International Legion, known for their expertise, participated in the third operation. In the face of continued resistance, the Russian forces were compelled to deploy heavy equipment along the shoreline.

In spring 2022, at the outset of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Russian army took control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant and the adjacent city of Enerhodar.

While members of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) mission are stationed at the plant, they face limitations in accessing all areas within its premises.

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